Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A Programmable Logic Device (PLD) management system comprising: one or more PLDs; an interface unit connected to the one or more PLDs; a processor connected to the interface unit; and a computer program executed by the processor, configured to manage a usage status for each of the one or more PLDs; wherein the computer program is configured to: receive, from a request source module which is any one of a plurality of processing modules sharing access to each of the one or more PLDs, a usage request for a PLD, and perform control to prevent, on receiving the usage request, based on a current usage status of a corresponding PLD that is the PLD corresponding to the usage request and content of the usage request, two or more of the plurality of processing modules from utilizing the same PLD at the same time, wherein the plurality of processing modules are any one of an application, a thread, or a virtual machine.
A Programmable Logic Device (PLD) management system manages access to one or more PLDs shared among multiple processing modules, such as applications, threads, or virtual machines. The system prevents concurrent access conflicts by tracking the usage status of each PLD and enforcing exclusive access when requested. The system includes an interface unit connecting the PLDs to a processor, which executes a computer program to handle usage requests. When a processing module submits a request to use a PLD, the program checks the current usage status and the request details to ensure no two modules access the same PLD simultaneously. This prevents resource contention and ensures proper operation of the PLDs in shared environments. The system dynamically manages PLD allocation, allowing multiple processing modules to share the hardware efficiently while avoiding conflicts. The interface unit facilitates communication between the processor and the PLDs, enabling the management system to monitor and control access in real time. The solution addresses the challenge of resource sharing in multi-module environments, ensuring reliable PLD utilization without interference.
2. The PLD management system according to claim 1 , wherein the control includes: returning, to the request source module, with respect to the received usage request, a usage request response associated with usability information that is information indicating whether or not the corresponding PLD is usable and target device information that is information for managing access to the corresponding PLD.
A programmable logic device (PLD) management system monitors and controls access to PLDs within a computing environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently managing PLD resources by providing centralized control over their usage, ensuring proper allocation and preventing conflicts. When a module requests access to a PLD, the management system evaluates the request and generates a response. This response includes usability information, indicating whether the requested PLD is available for use, and target device information, which provides details necessary for accessing the PLD. The target device information may include identifiers, access protocols, or other metadata required to establish a connection. The system ensures that only authorized modules can access PLDs and that usage is tracked and managed according to predefined rules. This approach improves resource utilization, reduces access conflicts, and enhances system reliability by maintaining consistent control over PLD operations. The management system may also integrate with other components to enforce security policies, monitor performance, and optimize PLD allocation dynamically.
3. The PLD management system according to claim 2 , wherein: the computer program is configured: when the corresponding PLD is usable, to include information for accessing to the corresponding PLD in the target device information, and when the corresponding PLD is unusable, not to include information for accessing to the corresponding PLD in the target device information.
A programmable logic device (PLD) management system manages access to PLDs in a computing environment. The system addresses the challenge of dynamically determining whether a PLD is usable or unusable, ensuring that only functional PLDs are accessible to target devices. The system includes a computer program that evaluates the usability of each PLD. When a PLD is determined to be usable, the system includes access information for that PLD in the target device information, enabling the target device to interact with it. Conversely, if a PLD is deemed unusable, the system excludes its access information from the target device information, preventing the target device from attempting to use it. This selective inclusion or exclusion of PLD access information ensures that only operational PLDs are available to target devices, improving system reliability and efficiency. The system may also monitor PLD status changes and update the target device information accordingly, maintaining accurate access control. This approach optimizes resource allocation and reduces errors caused by attempting to use non-functional PLDs.
4. The PLD management system according to claim 2 , wherein: a storage location for configuration data of the corresponding PLD is associated with the received usage request; and the computer program is configured to return, when the corresponding PLD is usable, the usage request response to the request resource module after loading the configuration data from the storage location into the corresponding PLD.
A programmable logic device (PLD) management system manages the allocation and configuration of PLDs in a computing environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently assigning PLDs to tasks while ensuring proper configuration data is loaded before use. The system includes a request resource module that receives usage requests for PLDs and a computer program that processes these requests. When a PLD is available for use, the system associates the request with a storage location containing the required configuration data for that PLD. The computer program then loads the configuration data from the storage location into the PLD before returning a response to the request resource module, confirming the PLD is ready for use. This ensures that PLDs are properly configured before being allocated to tasks, improving system reliability and performance. The system may also include a PLD monitoring module that tracks the status of PLDs, such as their availability and current configuration, to facilitate efficient resource management. The computer program may further handle errors, such as failed configuration loading, by notifying the request resource module and preventing the use of improperly configured PLDs. This approach streamlines PLD management by automating configuration loading and ensuring only properly configured PLDs are allocated to tasks.
5. The PLD management system according to claim 2 , wherein: the computer program is configured to manage the received usage request as an usage request in a waiting state when the corresponding PLD is unusable; and cancel, when a cancellation request is received from the request source module that received the usage request response associated with the usability information indicating that the corresponding PLD is unusable, the usage request in the waiting state corresponding to the received cancellation request.
A programmable logic device (PLD) management system manages the allocation and usage of PLDs within a computing environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently handling PLD usage requests when the requested PLD is temporarily unavailable. When a usage request is received for a PLD that is currently unusable, the system places the request in a waiting state rather than rejecting it outright. This allows the request to be reconsidered later when the PLD becomes available. Additionally, if the request source module receives a usage request response indicating the PLD is unusable, it can send a cancellation request to the management system. Upon receiving this cancellation request, the system cancels the corresponding waiting state request, freeing up resources and preventing unnecessary queuing of requests that are no longer needed. The system ensures efficient resource management by dynamically adjusting to PLD availability and user needs.
6. The PLD management system according to claim 5 , wherein: the computer program is configured to associate, when the corresponding PLD is unusable, with the usage request response, either a predicted completion time of the received usage request or a number of usage requests in a waiting state.
A programmable logic device (PLD) management system monitors and controls the usage of multiple PLDs in a computing environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently managing PLD resources, particularly when devices become temporarily unusable due to maintenance, failures, or high demand. The system includes a computer program that tracks the status of each PLD and processes usage requests from users or applications. When a PLD is unavailable, the system enhances the response to usage requests by providing additional information to requesters. Specifically, the system can either predict the estimated completion time for the pending request or indicate the number of requests currently waiting in a queue. This helps users make informed decisions, such as whether to wait or seek an alternative resource. The system may also include a user interface for submitting requests and viewing PLD status, as well as a monitoring module to detect PLD availability and performance metrics. The goal is to optimize resource allocation and minimize downtime by providing transparency and predictive insights into PLD usage.
7. The PLD management system according to claim 2 , wherein: a desired PLD number that is a number of PLDs requested for simultaneous use by the request source module is associated with the received usage request; and the computer program is configured to associate, with the usage request response, the target device information corresponding to each of the corresponding PLDs of a number of PLDs determined based on an unused PLD number that is a number of usable corresponding PLDs and the desired PLD number.
This invention relates to a programmable logic device (PLD) management system designed to efficiently allocate PLDs in response to usage requests from various modules. The system addresses the challenge of dynamically assigning PLDs while ensuring optimal resource utilization and meeting the requested number of devices. The system receives a usage request from a request source module, where the request includes a desired PLD number, representing the quantity of PLDs needed for simultaneous use. The system evaluates the available unused PLDs and determines the number of PLDs to allocate based on both the unused PLD count and the desired PLD number. The system then generates a usage request response that includes target device information for each allocated PLD, ensuring the requesting module can access the assigned devices. The system ensures efficient PLD allocation by dynamically adjusting the number of devices assigned based on availability, preventing resource overcommitment while fulfilling as much of the request as possible. This approach optimizes PLD utilization in environments where multiple modules compete for limited PLD resources. The system may also include additional features such as tracking PLD usage, managing device assignments, and handling conflicts or errors in the allocation process.
8. The PLD management system according to claim 7 , wherein: the determined number of PLDs is based on a frequency at which the computer program receives the usage requests.
A programmable logic device (PLD) management system dynamically allocates PLDs to execute a computer program based on usage demand. The system monitors the frequency of usage requests for the computer program and adjusts the number of allocated PLDs accordingly. Higher request frequencies trigger the allocation of more PLDs to handle increased load, while lower frequencies reduce the number of active PLDs to conserve resources. The system ensures efficient resource utilization by scaling PLD allocation in response to real-time demand fluctuations. This approach optimizes performance and cost by dynamically matching PLD resources to the actual workload, preventing over-provisioning during low-demand periods and ensuring sufficient capacity during peak usage. The system may also include mechanisms to distribute usage requests across multiple PLDs to balance the load and prevent bottlenecks. By continuously monitoring request patterns, the system adapts allocation strategies to maintain optimal performance without manual intervention. This dynamic scaling method is particularly useful in environments where workloads vary significantly over time, such as cloud computing or high-performance computing applications.
9. The PLD management system according to claim 7 , wherein: the computer program is configured to process usage requests in a waiting state in descending order of priority; the received usage request is associated with a usage request priority level; and the determined number of PLDs is based on the usage request priority level associated with the received usage request.
A programmable logic device (PLD) management system dynamically allocates PLD resources based on priority levels assigned to usage requests. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently managing limited PLD resources in environments where multiple users or applications compete for access. The system includes a computer program that processes usage requests in a waiting state, prioritizing them in descending order of priority. Each request is assigned a priority level, which influences the number of PLDs allocated to fulfill the request. Higher-priority requests receive more PLDs, ensuring critical tasks are handled first. The system dynamically adjusts resource allocation to optimize performance and fairness, preventing lower-priority requests from monopolizing resources. This approach is particularly useful in shared computing environments where PLDs are used for tasks like signal processing, prototyping, or hardware acceleration. The system ensures efficient resource utilization while maintaining responsiveness for high-priority operations.
10. The PLD management system according to claim 1 , wherein: a desired PLD number that is a number of PLDs requested for simultaneous use by the request source module is associated with the received usage request.
A programmable logic device (PLD) management system manages the allocation and usage of PLDs in a computing environment. The system receives usage requests from request source modules, such as software applications or hardware components, that require PLD resources. Each request includes a desired PLD number, which specifies the number of PLDs needed for simultaneous use by the request source module. The system processes these requests to allocate the requested PLDs while ensuring efficient utilization and avoiding conflicts. The management system may also track PLD availability, monitor performance, and enforce usage policies to optimize resource allocation. This approach ensures that request sources obtain the required PLDs for their operations while maintaining system stability and performance. The system may further include mechanisms to handle dynamic changes in PLD demand, such as scaling up or down based on workload requirements. By associating the desired PLD number with each usage request, the system ensures precise allocation of resources to meet the specific needs of each request source.
11. The PLD management system according to claim 1 , wherein: the computer program is configured to process usage requests in a waiting state in descending order of priority; and the received usage request is associated with a usage request priority level.
A programmable logic device (PLD) management system manages the allocation and usage of PLD resources in a computing environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently distributing PLD resources among multiple users or applications, ensuring high-priority tasks receive preferential access while maintaining fairness and system stability. The system includes a computer program that processes usage requests in a waiting state, prioritizing them in descending order of priority. Each received usage request is assigned a priority level, which determines its position in the processing queue. Higher-priority requests are handled before lower-priority ones, optimizing resource utilization and minimizing delays for critical tasks. The system may also include features for monitoring resource availability, conflict resolution, and dynamic priority adjustments to adapt to changing workload demands. This approach ensures that PLD resources are allocated efficiently, reducing idle time and improving overall system performance. The system is particularly useful in environments where multiple applications compete for limited PLD resources, such as cloud computing, embedded systems, or high-performance computing clusters.
12. The PLD management system according to claim 1 , wherein: both a storage location for configuration data of the corresponding PLD and a setting value necessary to execute the corresponding PLD are associated with the received usage request; and the computer program is configured to: execute, after loading the configuration data from the storage location to the usable corresponding PLD, the corresponding PLD using the setting value, and return, to the request source module, result data processed using the corresponding PLD.
A programmable logic device (PLD) management system dynamically allocates and configures PLDs in response to usage requests from request source modules. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently managing PLD resources in computing environments where multiple modules require access to PLDs for specialized processing tasks. The system associates each usage request with both a storage location containing the configuration data for the requested PLD and a setting value needed to execute the PLD. Upon receiving a request, the system loads the configuration data from the specified storage location into the designated PLD, applies the provided setting value, and executes the PLD. After processing, the system returns the resulting data to the requesting module. This approach ensures that PLDs are configured and utilized on-demand, optimizing resource allocation and reducing idle time. The system supports multiple PLDs, each with distinct configuration data and settings, allowing flexible deployment across different applications. The management system automates the configuration and execution process, minimizing manual intervention and improving efficiency in environments where PLDs are shared among multiple tasks or modules.
13. The PLD management system according to claim 12 , wherein: the computer program is configured to: manage a usage frequency for each set of configuration data that is loaded; and load, when there is a usable PLD, configuration data corresponding to a highest usage frequency into the usable PLD.
A programmable logic device (PLD) management system optimizes the loading of configuration data into PLDs to improve efficiency and resource utilization. The system includes a computer program that tracks and manages the usage frequency of each set of configuration data loaded into the PLDs. When a PLD becomes available for use, the system identifies the configuration data with the highest usage frequency and loads it into the available PLD. This approach ensures that frequently used configurations are prioritized, reducing the need for repeated loading operations and minimizing downtime. The system dynamically adapts to usage patterns, enhancing overall performance by keeping the most commonly used configurations readily accessible. This method is particularly useful in environments where multiple PLDs are shared among different applications, as it optimizes resource allocation based on real-time usage data. The system may also include additional features such as monitoring PLD status, managing configuration data storage, and handling errors to ensure reliable operation. By focusing on usage frequency, the system improves efficiency and reduces the overhead associated with loading and reloading configuration data.
14. The PLD management system according to claim 12 , wherein: the setting value includes either an argument relating to activation of the corresponding PLD, or an execution function and corresponding argument.
A programmable logic device (PLD) management system is designed to dynamically configure and control multiple PLDs within a computing environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently managing PLD resources, ensuring optimal performance, and reducing configuration overhead. The system includes a management module that interfaces with the PLDs, allowing for real-time adjustments to their operational parameters. The management module retrieves and applies setting values to the PLDs, where each setting value can either activate a specific PLD or define an execution function along with its corresponding argument. This flexibility enables dynamic reconfiguration of PLD operations based on system demands or external triggers. The system also supports monitoring and logging of PLD activities, providing insights into performance and resource utilization. By centralizing PLD management, the system simplifies deployment, reduces manual intervention, and enhances system scalability. The solution is particularly useful in high-performance computing, embedded systems, and applications requiring adaptive hardware configurations.
15. The PLD management system according to claim 12 , wherein: division information that is information for dividing processing using the corresponding PLD is associated with the received usage request; and wherein the computer program is configured to: manage the received usage request in a waiting state when the corresponding PLD is unusable, suspend, when a usage request in the waiting state occurs while a processing operation using the corresponding PLD is performed, the processing operation based on the division information, and execute a processing operation using a PLD corresponding to the usage request in the waiting state.
This invention relates to a programmable logic device (PLD) management system designed to optimize resource allocation in computing environments where multiple users or processes compete for PLD resources. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently managing PLD usage requests, particularly when the requested PLD is temporarily unavailable due to ongoing operations. The system associates each usage request with division information, which specifies how processing tasks can be divided or partitioned across the PLD. When a PLD is in use, the system places new requests in a waiting state. If a waiting request matches the division criteria of the currently executing task, the system suspends the ongoing operation, allowing the waiting request to utilize the PLD. This approach minimizes idle time and improves resource utilization by dynamically reallocating PLD resources based on task compatibility. The system ensures fair access while maximizing throughput by prioritizing requests that can be seamlessly integrated into ongoing processes. This method is particularly useful in high-demand environments where PLDs are shared among multiple applications or users, ensuring efficient and equitable resource distribution.
16. The PLD management system according to claim 1 , wherein: the corresponding PLD includes: a plurality of configuration data storage areas, and a configuration control unit that is configured to control switching of a configuration data storage area to be used from among the plurality of configuration data storage areas; and wherein the configuration control unit is configured to switch the configuration data storage area to be used based on predetermined time interval.
This invention relates to a programmable logic device (PLD) management system designed to enhance flexibility and efficiency in PLD configurations. The system addresses the challenge of dynamically managing configuration data in PLDs, which traditionally require static or manual updates, leading to inefficiencies in resource utilization and adaptability. The PLD management system includes a PLD with multiple configuration data storage areas and a configuration control unit. The configuration control unit dynamically switches between these storage areas at predetermined time intervals, allowing seamless transitions between different configurations without manual intervention. This enables the PLD to adapt to varying operational requirements, such as different processing tasks or environmental conditions, by automatically selecting the appropriate configuration data at scheduled intervals. The system ensures continuous operation by maintaining multiple configuration sets, reducing downtime associated with reconfiguration. The time-based switching mechanism eliminates the need for external triggers, simplifying system integration and reducing complexity. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring periodic reconfiguration, such as adaptive signal processing, real-time control systems, or fault-tolerant computing environments. The invention improves PLD utilization by optimizing resource allocation and enhancing responsiveness to changing demands.
17. A Programmable Logic Device (PLD) management method comprising: receiving, from a request source module which is any one of a plurality of processing modules sharing access to each of one or more PLDs, a usage request; and performing control to prevent, when the usage request is received, based on a current usage status of a corresponding PLD that is the PLD corresponding to the usage request and content of the usage request, two or more processing modules of the plurality of processing modules from utilizing the same PLD at the same time, wherein the plurality of processing modules are any one of an application, a thread, or a virtual machine.
This technical summary describes a method for managing access to Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs) in a system where multiple processing modules, such as applications, threads, or virtual machines, share access to one or more PLDs. The method addresses the problem of potential conflicts when multiple processing modules attempt to use the same PLD simultaneously, which could lead to errors or performance degradation. The method involves receiving a usage request from a request source module, which can be any one of the processing modules. Upon receiving the request, the method checks the current usage status of the corresponding PLD and the content of the request to determine whether the PLD is already in use. If the PLD is already being utilized by another processing module, the method prevents the new request from accessing the PLD at the same time, thereby avoiding conflicts. This ensures that only one processing module can use a given PLD at any given time, maintaining proper operation and preventing resource contention. The method dynamically manages PLD access based on real-time usage status and request details, providing efficient and conflict-free utilization of shared PLD resources.
18. The PLD management method according to claim 17 , wherein the control includes: returning, to the request source module, with respect to the received usage request, a usage request response associated with usability information that is information indicating whether or not the corresponding PLD is usable and target device information that is information for managing access to the corresponding PLD.
This invention relates to managing programmable logic devices (PLDs) in a computing system, addressing the challenge of efficiently handling usage requests for PLDs while ensuring proper access control and usability verification. The method involves receiving a usage request from a request source module, where the request pertains to a specific PLD. The system then determines the usability of the requested PLD, generating usability information indicating whether the PLD is available for use. Additionally, the system provides target device information that manages access to the PLD, ensuring secure and controlled interaction. The method responds to the request source module with a usage request response that includes both the usability information and the target device information. This approach ensures that the requester receives clear feedback on the PLD's availability and the necessary access details, streamlining PLD management in dynamic computing environments. The method may also involve validating the request source module's authority to access the PLD, further enhancing security. By integrating usability checks and access management into a single response, the system optimizes resource allocation and reduces latency in PLD utilization.
19. The PLD management method according to claim 17 , further comprising: executing, after loading configuration data from storage location of the configuration data of the corresponding PLD to a usable corresponding PLD, the corresponding PLD using a setting value necessary to execute the corresponding PLD; and returning, to the request source module, result data processed using the corresponding PLD.
This invention relates to managing programmable logic devices (PLDs) in a computing system. The problem addressed is the efficient loading and execution of PLDs based on configuration data stored in a storage location, ensuring proper initialization and operation of the PLDs. The method involves selecting a target PLD from multiple available PLDs and loading configuration data from a designated storage location into the target PLD. The configuration data is used to initialize the PLD with necessary setting values, enabling it to execute its intended functions. After initialization, the PLD processes data and returns the results to the requesting module. This approach ensures that PLDs are correctly configured and operational before performing tasks, improving reliability and performance in systems utilizing programmable logic. The method supports dynamic reconfiguration of PLDs by allowing different configuration data to be loaded as needed, enhancing flexibility in hardware resource management. The invention is particularly useful in systems where PLDs are used for specialized processing tasks, such as acceleration or custom logic operations.
20. The PLD management method according to claim 17 , further comprising: switching, based on a predetermined time interval, a configuration data storage area to be used from among a plurality of configuration data storage areas.
A programmable logic device (PLD) management method involves dynamically switching between multiple configuration data storage areas to optimize performance and reliability. The method addresses the challenge of maintaining efficient and fault-tolerant operation in PLDs, which are susceptible to configuration data corruption or degradation over time. By periodically switching the active storage area, the system ensures that configuration data remains intact and operational, reducing the risk of failures due to prolonged use of a single storage area. The method includes monitoring the PLD's operational state and, based on a predetermined time interval, selecting a new configuration data storage area from a plurality of available areas. This switching process ensures that no single storage area is overused, thereby extending the lifespan of the configuration data storage components. The method also includes verifying the integrity of the configuration data in the selected storage area before switching, ensuring seamless and error-free transitions. Additionally, the method may involve storing redundant copies of configuration data across multiple storage areas to provide backup options in case of data corruption. This redundancy enhances system reliability by allowing quick recovery from storage failures. The switching mechanism is designed to be transparent to the PLD's operation, minimizing disruptions during transitions. Overall, the method improves the robustness and longevity of PLD configurations by distributing wear and mitigating the risk of data degradation.
Unknown
October 29, 2019
Browse 5M+ US patents with plain-English claim translations and AI-generated analysis.